With Rio de Janiero winning the bid to host the 2016 Olympic games, as well as hosting the 2014 World Cup, the years ahead are sure to be Brazil’s ticket to improving the country’s tourist flow, especially with many soccer enthusiasts already including the trip to Brazil in 2014 on their agendas. Yet with the schedule ahead, the country will have to make many improvements when in comes to safety and security and airport critical infrastructure is at the top of the list for Brazil.
In a recent report released by the Associated Press last month, Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) sees the lack of airport infrastructure as the biggest problem facing Brazil ahead of the 2014 World Cup. According to the report’s findings, there are few major airports in Brazil and delays and congestion are common occurrences in the nation's air system. The most critical situation is in Sao Paulo, South America's biggest city and a major hub for international flights. Yet, government officials state the lack of airport infrastructure won’t be an issue by the time 2014 rolls around.
Security and safety are still major issues and tourists visiting the country are encouraged to take necessary precautions as the incidence of crime against tourists is greater in areas surrounding beaches, hotels, discotheques, bars, nightclubs and other similar establishments that cater to visitors, according to the Department of Homeland Security.
Rio De Janeiro continues to experience a high incidence of crime, especially with more frequent crime occurring during Carnaval and the weeks prior. All areas of Sao Paulo have a high rate of armed robbery of pedestrians and vehicle drivers at stoplights.
For the latest security information, Americans traveling abroad should regularly monitor the Department of State, Bureau of Consular Affairs’ website, where the current Travel Warnings and Travel Alerts, as well as the Worldwide Caution, can be found.
To read more regarding airport security and FIFA World Cup 2014, visit http://www.mlive.com/sportsflash/index.ssf?/base/sports-107/1254162302107070.xml&storylist=sports
Also check out SD&I’s October issue for our story on Critical Infrastructure and Perimeter Security, found on page 46.
Natalia Kosk
Assistant Editor, Security Dealer & Integrator
